What Are the Requirements for Mainland Chinese to Register a Company in Singapore? Understand All in One Article!

What Mainland Chinese Investors Need to Know to Register a Company in Singapore - A Complete Guide

In recent years, with the acceleration of global economic integration, more and more Mainland Chinese investors have turned their attention overseas in search of broader business opportunities. As one of the world’s most open and competitive economies, Singapore has become a top destination for Mainland investors due to its stable environment, efficient services, low tax policies, and strategic geographical location.

According to the latest data released by Enterprise Singapore, Chinese investment in Singapore continued to rise in 2025, particularly in the fields of technology, finance, and cross-border e-commerce. Mainland investors have shown increasing activity in these sectors. So, how can a Mainlander register a company in Singapore, and what are the requirements? This article provides a detailed explanation.

1. Common Types of Companies in Singapore

The most common form of business entity in Singapore is the Private Limited Company Pte Ltd. This type of company has a separate legal identity, and shareholders' liability is limited to the value of their shares. It is suitable for most small and medium-sized enterprises.

Mainland investors may also consider setting up a Representative Office or a Branch Office, but these structures are less flexible and are typically used for short-term market exploration or as extensions of large corporations.

2. Key Requirements for Registering a Company in Singapore

2.1 At Least One Local Director

Singapore law requires that every Private Limited Company must have at least one director who is a Singapore resident. This can be a Singapore citizen, Permanent Resident PR, or a foreigner holding a valid work pass such as an Employment Pass EP or S Pass.

For Mainland investors who cannot reside in Singapore long-term, hiring a nominee director service is a legal and compliant option. Many professional secretarial firms offer this service.

2.2 Company Secretary

Within six months of incorporation, a company must appoint a Singapore-resident company secretary. The secretary ensures compliance with corporate regulations, including filing annual returns and maintaining meeting records.

2.3 Share Capital

There is no minimum share capital requirement in Singapore. Investors can set the capital as low as SGD 1, and it can be denominated in SGD, USD, or other foreign currencies.

2.4 Registered Address

The company must have a valid physical address in Singapore-a P.O. Box is not acceptable. This address will be used for official communications and legal notices.

2.5 Business Activities

At registration, the company must declare its primary business activities, selecting up to two business codes under the Singapore Standard Industry Classification SSIC. If the business involves regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, or education, additional licenses may be required.

3. Step-by-Step Registration Process for Mainland Investors

3.1 Choose a Company Name

Submit the proposed company name to the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ACRA to ensure it is available.

3.2 Prepare Required Documents

Documents include identity and address proof of directors and shareholders, the company’s constitution, and the registered address in Singapore.

3.3 Submit Registration Application

Use ACRA’s online portal to complete the registration. The process typically takes one business day.

3.4 Open a Corporate Bank Account

After incorporation, you can open a corporate bank account in Singapore or with an international bank. Some banks allow remote account opening, while others may require a director to be physically present.

3.5 Apply for Work Passes if applicable

If the Mainland investor intends to manage the business in Singapore long-term, they may apply for an Employment Pass EP or an EntrePass Entrepreneur Pass. The EntrePass is particularly suitable for startups and has relatively lower requirements.

4. Tax Policies and Incentives

Singapore is known for its low corporate tax rate, capped at 17%, with tax exemptions for the first SGD 500,000 of annual profits. It also has Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements DTAs with many countries, offering tax relief for international businesses.

In addition, Singapore offers various tax incentives for technology and innovation-driven companies, such as RD tax credits and the Angel Investor Tax Deduction Scheme, which help reduce the financial burden on startups.

5. Recent Trends and Policy Changes 2025

According to announcements from the Monetary Authority of Singapore MAS and the Ministry of Manpower MOM in the second half of 2025, Singapore has tightened the screening process for EntrePass and Employment Pass applications. These changes aim to ensure that foreign applicants truly possess professional expertise and innovation potential.

As a result, Mainland investors applying for these passes may need to submit more detailed documentation, including comprehensive business plans, capital investment details, and market forecasts.

Singapore is also actively promoting digital transformation, encouraging the use of electronic signatures and remote banking services, making it easier for overseas investors to register and operate businesses without being physically present.

6. Conclusion

For Mainland Chinese investors seeking overseas expansion, Singapore remains an attractive and strategic gateway. With proper planning and professional support, setting up a company in Singapore is not only straightforward but also offers numerous benefits in terms of taxation, regulatory efficiency, and global connectivity.

Whether you're launching a cross-border e-commerce venture, a tech startup, or establishing a regional headquarters, Singapore provides the ideal platform to access global markets. If you're considering setting up a business in Singapore, it's crucial to understand the legal framework and seek professional guidance to ensure a smooth and compliant process.